The British High Commission in Kampala launched a Commonwealth Sport Campaign highlighting shared values, Ugandan sporting excellence and Africa's leadership in global sport.
The campaign highlights the shared values of the 74 Commonwealth nations and territories as they prepare to compete in the Commonwealth Games in Scotland from 23 July to 2 August 2026. The Games are expected to bring together around 3,000 athletes from across the world.
Uganda will be among the competing nations, sending more than 50 athletes across nine sports. The team includes distance runners, para‑athletes, boxers and the She Cranes netball team, currently ranked sixth in the world.
Uganda at the heart of the Commonwealth
Uganda has participated in the Commonwealth Games since 1954 and has competed at every Games since, with one exception. Over more than seven decades, Ugandan athletes have won 58 medals in athletics and boxing, with particular success in long‑distance running.
Uganda has won the men's 10,000 metres title at five consecutive Commonwealth Games. At Birmingham 2022, Jacob Kiplimo won gold in both the 5,000 metres and 10,000 metres, while Victor Kiplangat secured Uganda's first Commonwealth Games gold medal in the marathon.
That record of excellence is now matched by a landmark moment in sport governance. Dr Donald Rukare, a Ugandan lawyer and sports administrator with more than three decades of experience, was elected President of Commonwealth Sport in November 2025, becoming the first person from the Africa region to lead the organisation. Commonwealth Sport governs the Games and oversees a movement spanning 74 nations and territories.
H.E. Lisa Chesney MBE, British High Commissioner to Uganda said:
This campaign is really about the athletes. Husnah Kukundakwe, who stepped onto the world stage at just 14 and became Uganda's first para‑swimmer at a Commonwealth Games. Denis Mbaziira, Uganda's first para‑powerlifter. And Jacob Kiplimo and Victor Kiplangat, who broke records and won gold at Birmingham 2022. Alongside Dr Don Rukare's election as the first African President of Commonwealth Sport, they show why this moment matters. As the UK prepares to host the Games in Glasgow, we look forward to celebrating Ugandan excellence and the most inclusive Commonwealth Games to date.
Dr. Donald Rukare, President Commonwealth Sport said:
Sports, in our society, is more than competition; it's a powerful force for unity, health, and progress. It builds character, bridges divides, and inspires youth to dream big. In Uganda, where cycling paths wind through our vibrant communities, and fields host athlete dreams, sports foster peace, empowers athletes especially women and girls and drives national pride.
We look forward to team Uganda joining the rest of the teams and not only competing on the field of play but also making lasting friendships, enjoy the culture and legendary hospitality of Glaswegians. There is no doubt that they will leave with great memories of their stay in Glasgow.
